How to Jack Up a Dual Axle Travel Trailer
When it comes to maintaining your dual axle travel trailer, knowing how to safely jack it up is an essential skill every owner should possess. Whether you’re performing routine maintenance, inspecting your trailer for damages, or replacing tires, proper jacking techniques will ensure your safety and the integrity of your equipment. This comprehensive guide walks you through the detailed steps to jack up a dual axle travel trailer, discusses safety considerations, and provides tips for effective maintenance.
Understanding Your Travel Trailer’s Structure
Before delving into the jacking process, it’s important to understand the basic structure of a dual axle travel trailer. Typically, a dual axle trailer has two sets of wheels situated on opposing sides. This design provides better weight distribution and stability compared to single axle trailers. The axles elevate the trailer body above the ground, allowing for easier maneuverability on rough terrains.
Components of a Dual Axle Travel Trailer
1. Frame: The trailer’s frame is its structural support and is essential for towing.
2. Axles: These are the rods that connect the wheels on either side of the trailer.
3. Suspension System: The suspension system helps absorb shock while you’re on the road.
4. Tires: Proper tire maintenance is crucial to prevent blowouts and ensure road safety.
5. Breakaway System: This system prevents the trailer from rolling away if it becomes detached from the tow vehicle.
Understanding these components will help you identify where to place your jack and ensure you’re working safely.
Safety First: Precautions to Take Before Jacking
Before you begin jacking up your travel trailer, it’s paramount to prioritize safety. Follow these precautions:
1. Choose an Appropriate Location: Find a flat and stable surface to work on. Avoid jacking the trailer on slopes or uneven ground.
2. Use Wheel Chocks: Placing wheel chocks in front of the front wheels will help prevent the trailer from rolling unexpectedly.
3. Engage the Parking Brake: Ensure the trailer’s parking brake is fully engaged to prevent any movement.
4. Empty the Trailer: If possible, remove heavy items from the interior of your trailer to reduce weight.
5. Check Your Jack: Inspect your jack for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure it is rated for the weight of your trailer.
Tools Required
To jack up a dual axle travel trailer successfully, you’ll need the following tools:
Jack: A heavy-duty hydraulic or bottle jack rated for your trailer’s weight.
Jack Stands: Ensure stability while working under the trailer.
Wheel Chocks: To secure the trailer from rolling.
Torque Wrench: For properly tightening lug nuts when changing tires.
Basic Hand Tools: Wrenches, cordless drills, or screwdrivers might be necessary for various tasks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up a Dual Axle Travel Trailer
Step 1: Preparing Your Travel Trailer
1. Park the Trailer: Position your dual axle travel trailer on a level, solid surface. Set the parking brake and chock the wheels.
2. Gather Your Tools: Have all your tools and equipment within reach to ensure you’re not running back and forth.
Step 2: Positioning the Jack
1. Locate the Jack Points: Typically, there are designated areas on the trailer frame for jacking. Refer to your owner’s manual for specifics. These points are often near the axles.
2. Place the Jack: Position the jack under the frame or axle at the designated jack point. Make sure the jack is perpendicular to the trailer for stability.
Step 3: Lifting the Trailer
1. Begin Lifting: Slowly pump the jack handle to raise the trailer. Keep a close eye on the trailer stabilizing; do not raise it too high initially.
2. Check Stability: Once lifted off the ground, check that the trailer is not swaying and is sitting securely on the jack.
Step 4: Adding Jack Stands
1. Set Jack Stands: Once the trailer is lifted to the desired height, place jack stands beneath the frame. This provides a backup in case the jack were to fail.
2. Lower the Jack: Slowly lower the trailer onto the jack stands until they bear the weight completely.
Step 5: Performing the Necessary Work
With your trailer now secure on jack stands, you can perform the necessary maintenance—changing tires, inspecting brake systems, or addressing any repairs needed.
Step 6: Lowering the Trailer
Once your work is complete, it’s time to lower the trailer properly.
1. Remove the Jack Stands: Before lowering, ensure everything is clear from underneath.
2. Slowly Raise the Jack: First, lift the trailer slightly off the jack stands to free them.
3. Remove the Jack Stands: Carefully pull out the stands.
4. Lower the Trailer: Once the stands are removed, lower the trailer back to the ground by gently releasing the jack.
Step 7: Final Checks
1. Check Your Work: Before hitting the road, ensure that all lug nuts are tightened if you’ve changed tires.
2. Inspect: Conduct a final inspection under and around the trailer to check for any issues.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Jacking on Uneven Ground: Always ensure that you’re on solid, level ground to prevent instability.
Not Using Jack Stands: Never rely solely on the jack to hold up the trailer while you work.
Ignoring the Weight Limit: Ensure your jack can handle the trailer’s weight. Consult your trailer’s manual for specific weight limits.
Inadequate Chocking: Failing to chock the wheels can cause the trailer to roll.
Conclusion
Knowing how to correctly jack up a dual axle travel trailer is crucial for both safety and maintenance. By following the outlined steps and adhering to the safety precautions, you’ll be able to perform necessary repairs and inspections with confidence.
Routine maintenance doesn’t just maintain the functionality of your trailer; it also ensures your safety during trips. As a responsible travel trailer owner, make sure to familiarize yourself with these procedures and apply them every time you need to lift your trailer. Always remember that a well-maintained trailer leads to safer and more enjoyable adventures on the road. Happy travels!